Comcast and Bally Sports have orchestrated a triumphant return of regional sports networks just in time for fans eager to catch the tail end of the MLB season and the oncoming NBA and NHL campaigns. The new carriage agreement, struck with the Diamond Sports Group, marks a significant development for Comcast subscribers.
Subscribers to Xfinity’s "Ultimate TV" now have the opportunity to watch live, local broadcasts of MLB, NBA, and NHL games. For those contemplating an upgrade, Comcast is offering an enticing deal: a three-month trial period free of charge if they elevate their service to this premium package by August 30. After the trial period, the service will transition to a $20 monthly fee.
The Negotiations
The restoration of Bally Sports channels is the culmination of protracted negotiations that began after the channels were removed in early May. These negotiations led to a postponed confirmation hearing initially scheduled for July 29 and 30. For Comcast subscribers, this resolution reestablishes accessibility to beloved local sports broadcasts.
“Entering a new carriage agreement with Comcast, our third largest distributor, is a critical step forward in our restructuring effort, and we are pleased that fans will again be able to access broadcasts of their local teams through Xfinity,” said Diamond CEO David Preschlack. This agreement signifies a victory in Diamond’s ongoing Chapter 11 restructuring, now at sixteen months.
Digital and Linear Viewing Options
For fans in markets such as those of the Atlanta Braves, Minnesota Twins, Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Royals, Tampa Bay Rays, and Miami Marlins, this agreement brings especially good news. Bally Sports' streaming app further enhances accessibility, offering an in-market option to watch games for Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers fans. However, followers of the Braves and Twins face fewer choices for live broadcasts due to the absence of Bally Sports’ streaming app in these markets. It’s worth noting that Diamond holds linear rights to broadcasts for twelve MLB teams.
Future Directions
While the current deal focuses on existing MLB broadcasting, eyes are turning towards securing new digital-rights agreements with the NBA and NHL. “With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA,” said Preschlack. “We are mindful that time is of the essence with basketball and hockey seasons fast approaching, and once agreements with our team and league partners are complete, we intend to move expeditiously to present a plan of reorganization to the court,” he added.
Upcoming Seasons
The renewed access to Bally Sports channels via Comcast heralds an exciting time for sports fans. As the basketball and hockey seasons approach, the ability to follow local teams provides a continued connection and dedication to community sports. For Diamond Sports, the recent months of restructuring are now directed towards sealing deals with both the NBA and NHL, which could further expand viewing options and solidify future broadcasts.
In markets filled with devoted fans, the availability of Bally Sports channels is more than just a perk; it represents the heart of local sports fandom. With this new carriage agreement, Comcast and Bally Sports have not only achieved a business victory but also rekindled the spirit of local sports, ready to fuel enthusiasm for the rest of the year and beyond.